Dance Etiquette 101

Dance in partnership requires respect to our mutual partners. There a few pointers we would like to give our beginner students.

  • Be presentable and clean - Wear dance appropriate cloth and shoes. (ex. Bring a towel if you sweat a lot and use deodorant if necessary)

  • Compliment and don’t teach - Give each other encouragement and praises. Avoid teaching on the dance floor to fellow students. Let the instructors do the teaching.

  • Dance floor is for dancing - If you are chatting with a fellow dancer please move to the side of the dance floor. Let’s keep the dance floor for dancing.

  • Be aware of your space - It is easy to bump into someone else on a crowded dance floor. Try to maintain a set area for you and your partner and stick to this space. If you do bump into someone apologize whether it is your fault of theirs.

  • Protect your partner - Leaders are especially responsible to protect their partner. Always ‘shoulder check’ before you move your partner. Followers can also do their part. If you see someone behind your partner you can tug on their frame slightly to signal someone is behind them.

  • Ask politely and it’s okay to say no - Both leaders and followers can ask someone to dance. If you do not wish to dance please say “no” politely. If you refused a dance try not to go dance with someone else. If someone already refused to dance please do not try to pressure or be persistent with them. However, it is always hard to hear “no”. If someone says “no” to you try not to take it personally.

Social Dance Code of Conduct

At our social dance events, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all participants. To ensure a positive experience for everyone, please adhere to the following code of conduct:

  1. Consent is Key:

    • Always seek and obtain clear consent before initiating a dance with someone.

    • Respect the verbal or non-verbal cues indicating comfort or discomfort.

    • The right to say "no" is absolute, and it should be acknowledged without any pressure.

  2. Respect Personal Space:

    • Be mindful of the personal space of your dance partner and other dancers on the floor.

    • Avoid any moves or gestures that may make others feel uncomfortable.

  3. Hygiene and Attire:

    • Maintain good personal hygiene to ensure a pleasant experience for yourself and others.

    • Dress appropriately for the dance style, considering the comfort and modesty of yourself and those around you.

  4. Inclusive Behavior:

    • Be welcoming to dancers of all levels, backgrounds, and identities.

    • Encourage and support fellow dancers, fostering a positive and inclusive community.

  5. Communication:

    • Communicate openly and respectfully with your dance partner.

    • If you have specific preferences or concerns, kindly express them in a considerate manner.

  6. Floor Etiquette:

    • Navigate the dance floor with awareness, avoiding collisions and respecting the space of others.

    • If someone is dancing in close proximity, adjust your moves accordingly to maintain a safe distance.

  7. Enjoy Responsibly:

    • If consuming alcoholic beverages, do so responsibly and be aware of your limits.

    • Refrain from engaging in any behavior that may compromise the safety or enjoyment of others.

  8. Report Concerns:

    • If you witness or experience any behavior that goes against this code of conduct, please report it to event organizers or staff immediately.

By participating in our social dance events, you agree to uphold this code of conduct, contributing to a vibrant and respectful dance community. Thank you for your cooperation!